Interview: Savannah Outen Discusses Her Infectious New Single, ‘The Hard Way’
In the years since Savannah Outen’s began her artistic journey at the age of fifteen the beautiful songstress has found unprecedented musical success. For, in addition to becoming a fixture on the Radio Disney charts her ubiquitous renditions of various cover songs have garnered her more than 120 million views on YouTube.
Last year, Outen’s hauntingly ethereal track, “Sad In The Summer” spoke about letting go of the past and finding freedom. With her infectious new track, “The Hard Way,” the beautiful artist has managed to discover something else — a sound like no other.
Not only does “The Hard Way” feature Outen’s hook-laden melodies and distinctly powerful vocal prowess but the track showcases a deep level of emotional artistic maturity, proving that she’s becoming an even bigger force to be reckoned with.
I recently spoke with Outen about “The Hard Way,” songwriting and more in this exclusive new interview.
How did the new single, “The Hard Way,” originate?
Savannah Outen: For this track, I was in the studio with writer, Adam Melchor, and producer, Giulio Cercato. It was the first time the three of us had worked together and there were great vibes right from the start. I like to live a song before I write about it and that day we were all venting about the music industry and our individual takes and experiences. I was telling them how long I’ve been pursuing music and that there was a period I went through where I was feeling a little bit of doubt. We started with that idea. There’s a phase in your life when you’re in your twenties and maybe just getting out of college. A time when you love what you do but nothing’s happening. It’s a song telling you to keep going and trust your gut. Even if it takes longer than you thought. We wanted it to be fun but not too serious, with a cool 60’s/70’s vibe. It’s a song about my life and I’m so glad it’s out for everyone to hear.
What was the recording process like?
SO: Since we already knew what we wanted to say we needed to find a groove to match. The thing I love about this track is that it steers in the sonic direction of where I’m going. I loved infusing synths and live instruments and diving deeper into a gritty alternative world.
What can you tell me about the video for “The Hard Way?”
SO: I made the video with a great friend of mine, Ryan Espinosa. The video is fun and lighthearted and I even got my band involved. The cool thing is the song, artwork and video were all done with people that are close to me, which makes it even more special.
Is the new song part of a larger project you’re working on?
SO: I’ve been hard at work in the studio writing. So there will be a few new songs we’ll be releasing this year. I’ve been through a lot with my career and relationships and have been writing about all of it. I don’t want to hold these stories for myself anymore.
If you could’ve been born in any other decade, which one would it be and why?
SO: I’d have to start in the 60s. I’m obsessed with that era: Woodstock, the clothes, music and charisma. Everyone then was just so free-spirited. Then it would be straight into the 70s, because I’m also a huge ABBA fan.
What excites you the most about the new single and this next phase of your career?
SO: The thing that excites me the most about “The Hard Way” is that it stands for what I believe in. It’s the most “me” song I’ve ever released. It’s the song I’ve always wanted to write, sing and sound like so I’m stoked to be able to share it with everyone.
